A child’s fear of water is more common than many people realize—but it doesn’t have to be permanent. Whether your little one is nervous about getting splashed or hesitant to take their first steps into the pool, the right approach can make all the difference. With patience, encouragement and safe exposure, you can help a child overcome their fear and learn to be confident in and around the water. Here are some tips to get started:
1. Create a safe and supportive environment. Develop familiarity and trust with water in a non-threatening way, such as playing with water toys, getting used to Coast-Guard-approved life vests or splashing in shallow water. Always supervise the non-swimmer and allow the child to lead the pace of water exposure. Reassure them along the way.
2. Consider professional instruction. The Oshkosh YMCA’s Safety Around Water (SAW) and swim lesson programs help you and your child develop life-saving skills and build confidence in and around different bodies of water. Our trained instructors work with children of all ability levels and are an excellent resource for parents who want to help their child overcome their fears. Private swim lessons are an excellent option for swimmers who would benefit from one-on-one attention with an instructor.
3. Progress gradually. Your child probably won’t become a water bug overnight, and that’s okay. Introduce deeper water and more challenging activities as the child becomes more competent and confident with their swim safety skills. Always stay within the child’s comfort zone and offer plenty of positive reinforcement and supervision.
4. Be patient and stay calm. Overcoming a fear of water takes time. Your own demeanor and attitude can influence how a child feels, so stay relaxed and positive during water-related activities. This will help you both feel more at ease.
5. Set an example. Getting in the water with your child can help them feel more relaxed. If a parent is a strong swimmer, demonstrate how fun and safe the water can be by swimming nearby, playing games, or gently encouraging your child to join you. If you're not a confident swimmer yourself, consider taking lessons too—modeling a willingness to learn can be just as powerful.
Did You Know?
YMCAs across the country teach life-saving swim and water safety skills to over one million children each year. Right here in our community, the Oshkosh YMCA is proud to be a leading resource for swim lessons and water safety education.
Conclusion
Helping a child feel safe and confident in the water is a journey worth taking. With steady encouragement, supportive instruction, and a bit of patience, you’re not just teaching swim skills—you’re building a foundation for a lifetime of water safety, fun, and confidence. And when your child finally takes that leap and starts to enjoy the water, the joy and pride you’ll both feel will be well worth the effort.
Posted May 19, 2025.